Chamber Forest

Located at the outskirts of Budapest, the South-Western district of Kamaraerdő (literally, “Chamber Forest”) is surrounded by forests interspersed with clearings, concealing huts, tents, and shanties from sight. For three years I lived at this part of the city and after a while I started to photograph individuals who live on the fringe of society and instead of relying on the services the social care system offers or fails to offer, they strive to provide for their own housing independently. That’s how I met Vilmos, who has been living there for nearly 20 years and for a living does odd jobs in the neighborhood. The son of working-class parents, Vilmos grew up in a small town with seven siblings. His stepfather was an alcoholic. Upon leaving elementary school, Vilmos obtained certificates first in gardening and then in cooking, but developed a drinking habit by the end of his teenage years. His life took a dramatic turn when he got involved in a pub brawl resulting in the death of one participant. He was incarcerated at the age of 25, with his personality still unsettled, and was only set free at the age of 45. Everything changed during his years in prison. He lost contact with his family and his former acquaintances, leading him to take stock of his life anew. He came to terms with the fact that his teenage aggression had been rooted in his addiction, and thus decided to kick the habit. Vilmos is now a calm, reliable, good-natured individual, maintaining good contacts with the owners of the lot, who are happy to see someone living there on a regular basis and taking care of the premises and its surroundings. Somewhat like a modern hermit, he has eventually become an organic part of the neighborhood, raising animals and implementing a lifestyle of self-sufficiency.